A Minnesota pedestrian accident lawyer should be contacted immediately when a motor vehicle strikes a pedestrian. Walking near traffic can be dangerous—especially in busy city centers where vehicles and pedestrians share the road.
Pedestrian injuries are, unfortunately, a daily occurrence in Minnesota. In 2018, 1,016 people were injured in pedestrian accidents statewide, and pedestrian fatalities have increased by 35% over the past decade. Pedestrians include both walkers and bicyclists sharing public roads and crossings.
It Is Important to Know Your Rights as a Pedestrian in Minnesota
When you are struck by a vehicle, you are entitled to no-fault medical and wage-loss benefits—regardless of who caused the accident. Typically, these benefits come from your own car insurance. However, many pedestrians in the city do not own vehicles. In those cases, the insurance company for the driver who hit you must provide the required no-fault benefits.
Because pedestrians lack protection, their injuries are often far more severe than those in vehicle-on-vehicle crashes. If the driver is at fault, you can bring a claim against their insurance company for pain and suffering, as well as for any medical bills or lost wages not covered by no-fault benefits. You should also review your own auto policy to determine whether uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage applies when you are a pedestrian—these policies sometimes do, but not always.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, it’s critical to contact a Minnesota pedestrian accident attorney right away. An attorney can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and pursue full compensation for your medical expenses and losses.
How Do Pedestrian Accidents Happen in Minnesota?
The majority of pedestrian accidents occur due to driver negligence, such as:
- Texting or distracted driving
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Failing to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks
- Running stop signs or red lights
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
In many cases, drivers focus on watching other cars—especially while turning—and fail to notice pedestrians lawfully crossing intersections.
Determining Negligence in Pedestrian Accidents
Generally, if you are crossing an intersection legally and are hit by a car, the driver will be held at fault. However, if a pedestrian steps into traffic suddenly, some portion of negligence may shift to them.
Under Minnesota law, drivers must yield to pedestrians in both marked and unmarked crosswalks. A driver who fails to yield and strikes a pedestrian is legally responsible unless they can prove the pedestrian’s actions contributed significantly to the accident.
Local ordinances may also impact fault determination—especially for bicyclists. For example, downtown Minneapolis prohibits bicyclists from riding on sidewalks in business-zoned areas. If a cyclist violates that rule and is hit, partial liability may apply.
Preventing Pedestrian Injuries in Minnesota
- Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks.
- Pedestrians should take extra care at intersections, especially where turning vehicles are common.
- Always use designated crosswalks when possible, and look left, right, and left again before crossing.
- If a parked vehicle blocks your view, stop at its edge and look around before entering the street.
- Increase visibility at night with reflective clothing or a flashlight.
- Walk on sidewalks when available; if not, walk facing traffic.
Contact Minnesota’s Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
Losing a friend or loved one due to a driver’s negligence can be devastating. If you or someone you know has been involved in a pedestrian accident, contact an experienced Minnesota pedestrian accident attorney today. We will help you understand your options, protect your rights, and pursue maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Call or text 612-INJURED at (612) 465-8733 for a free consultation.